Indian Madder: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects (Manjistha)

What is Indian Madder?

Indian Madder is a plant, roots of this plant are used to prepare the medicine. Even though it has some serious safety concerns, most people consume it by mouth to prevent and cure kidney stones. In addition, it has the ability to treat jaundice, general menstrual disorders, blood disorders, bruises, paralysis, spleen disorders, urinary tract disorders, and sciatica.

It is used to stimulate urination, aphrodisiac, and tonic. Madder is also applied to the skin for specific skin conditions and to improve wound healing.

Overview Information

Rubia cordifolia, or Manjishtha, is often referred to as Indian Madder, it’s a flowering plant belonging to the coffee family Rubiaceae. It is cultivated for the red pigment obtained from the roots. The native of this plant are Pakistan, Afghanistan, Greece, China, India, Siberia, Japan, Manchuria, Bhutan, North Africa, Sikkim, Nepal, and Tibet. In Pakistan, you can find this plant in Murram, Dir, Abbottabad, Murree Hills, Waziristan, Swat, Peshawar, Poonch, Chitral Gilgit. In Sanskrit, Marathi, Kannada, and Bengali, it is called manjistha, in Hindi, it is known as majith, in Telugu, tamarillo and Manjiti in Tamil.

Indian Madder is one of the essential sources of red pigment in several regions of Asia, Europe, and Africa. In the middle ages of the nineteenth century, this plant was cultivated. Apart from all, this Indian madder plant is very controversial because it is very dangerous to take orally, but some people do it anyway.

This plant was used as a colorent agent in Indian medicine. Some of the Lepidoptera species, such as larvae, Hummingbird hawk moth, use this plant as food.

How Does It Work?

Some of the chemicals in Madder can inhibit kidney stones. This chemical is called alizarin and may block a protein that requires to be copied by the HIV virus.

Health Benefits of Indian Madder

In India, Africa, and Southeast Asia, Indian Madder is one of the popular medicinal herbs. It is used to purify blood in Ayurvedic medicine. Let’s take an in-depth look at the famous health benefits of Indian Madder.

1. Fight Against Cancer

Indian Madder has been used to cure uterine and ovarian cancers in Ayurveda. One lab research found that the Madder can fight against cancer and prevent cancer cell growth of liver, breast, and colon. As it has anti-tumor activity, thus helping to fight with myeloid leukemia and histiocytic lymphoma.

Some research has found that the circulating hexapeptides and quinones of the Madder can contribute to the anticancer activity. However, remember that these are still early days. More research is needed before the effective use of Indian Madder to fight cancer.

2. Promotes the Lymphatic System / Immune Boosting

Indian Madder has been used to purify the blood and aid in the proper functioning of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is an integral part of the immune system, transporting fluids to the whole body. It plays an essential role in tissue growth as well as expelling wastes and toxins from your body.

Your lymphatic system should have a powerful influence that increases its effectiveness when it is lethargic or easing any lymphatic congestion, which can affect your entire body. It is strongly linked to its impact on the lymphatic system, which is very beneficial for your skin and female reproductive health.

Ayurvedic knowledge about Manjistha is now supported by Western science. A recent study found that high levels of toxic chemicals provide powerful liver support when exposed to subjects. Manjista found a way to do this by increasing the production of glutathione in the liver. Glutathione is often called the “master antioxidant” of the body. Madder has been shown in two separate studies to expel even the most powerful antioxidants used in medical systems, namely ADDA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and vitamin E.

3. Increases Hair Growth

Shiny and glowing hair is possible by Indian Madder. Take the Indian Madder, henna, and hibiscus, they give a dark red color to your gray, resulting in a quicker brown or black hair color when using indigo. Everyone wants to have shiny hair. The stressful life and many other factors are the main reason for hair loss. Getting shiny and dark hair is the hardest aspect. But there are solutions in Ayurvedic herbs to make your hair shiny and reduce hair loss.

There are various ways to apply Indian Matter Powder on your hair. You can make a soft paste by mixing a tablespoon of Indian Madder powder with enough water. Apply it on your hair and idealize it for 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can mix the same quantity of Indian Madder powder and Amla powder. Make a paste and apply it in your hair.

4. Cures Jaundice

Indian Madder is one of the best traditional medicines for Jaundice caused by an excess of bilirubin in the blood. It leads to the white parts of the skin, mucous membranes, and eyebrows to turn yellow.
The jaundiced person’s symptoms include mild psoriasis, pale stool, dark urine, yellow discoloration of the skin, and eyelids. Moreover, Jaundice leads to liver-related ailments like malaria, hepatitis, thalassemia, and cirrhosis.

5. Relieves Eczema Symptoms

Eczema is a common skin disease that may lead to itchy red skin and blisters. Scientific research also points out that this ancient Ayurvedic remedy can ease Eczema. A study found that the impact of using an Indian Madder for two weeks on people with this condition can cure Eczema.

6. Stops the Diarrhea

Indian Madder is very effective in managing diarrhea. Improper diet, toxins, unclean water, and stress are all factors that make aggravating Vata. This bad gut transfers fluid from the body to the intestines. It can lead to loose or watery motions. Consuming Indian Madder can control diarrhea. Moreover, it increases digestive fire due to its appetite and digestive properties. It also stops bleeding due to its agility.

7. Helps to Treat Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease that may create when skin cells change more quickly than normal, resulting in crisp, thin red patches with silver scales. It is connected with excessive proliferation and abnormal differentiation of skin cells called keratinocytes.

You don’t have to worry about this, because the Indian Madder can overcome this issue. One research found that these root extracts have an anti-proliferative effect on keratinocytes.

8 Irregular Periods / PCOD

If you are affected by the irregular periods, then the Indian Madder is the right natural medicine. In addition, it can cure excessive abdominal pain/bleeding. It gives relief from dysmenorrhea and promotes easier flow during the menstrual cycle.

To cure PCOD, take the aloe vera pulp and Indian Madder capsules. Mix them well and consume them. It can purify your blood and replace the health of the uterus leading to regular, healthy periods. If you have the bad menstrual blood odor problem, then consume Indian Madder capsules.

9 Breast Reduction

Some suggest that Indian Madder can decrease breast size for both men and women, although it is often used for men. By controlling estrogen levels, it can be done. Keep in mind this is not proven in scientific research, but most people trust it.

10 Herpes

Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are believed to enhance the outbreaks of genital herpes. It also has immune-boosting properties that help the body fight off foreign invaders such as the herpes virus. Remember, consuming Indian Madder for this condition is not medically approved.

Therapeutic Uses of Indian Madder:

Indian Madder offers many therapeutic benefits. It can purify your blood and soothe sudden pain. Ayurvedic texts also describe many beauty device products. It is effectively working to decrease acne and pimples, enhancing color.

It relieves pain caused by arthritis and all types of inflammation. It has antimicrobial activity, thus helping to heal wounds. It prevents the accumulation of known anti-oxidant and platelets (blood components), thus purifying the blood.
It can control diabetes and regulate urination. Herbal derivatives protect the liver and also cure stomach ulcers. It inhibits damage to the brain (due to its neurological defenses.) It boosts the immune system and calms the mind by combating stress and tension. It is worthy of being called a refreshing herb.

In the root, you can find the anthraquinone glycosides (ruberythric acid, which is degradable as alizarin, lucidin, pseudopurpurin, xanthopurpurin, purpurin, and rubiadin). The root contains iridoid (asperuloside), calcium, organic acids, tannins, pectin, calcium, and sugars. Glycosides mainly cause the medicinal properties of the plant. Hippocrates uses this plant to cure different gynecological diseases.

In addition, it is listed as a sedative and diuretic agent for anemia, which certainly develops from the red dye color of the plant (signature theory).

Pliny used it as a remedy for jaundice, and the plant is mentioned in the verses of the world’s first medical school, Schola Medica Salernitana.

Madder is very popular for powder or juice to treat kidney and bladder disorders, and some medical studies showed that the positive results on the ability of the Madder to cure kidney and bladder stones.

This herb is also believed to be able to prevent the formation of kidney and bladder stones. Its ruberythric acid makes contact between calcium and magnesium ions, thus reducing the concentration of these ions in the urine.

Apart from the remedy for kidney stones, Madder is not widely used in modern herbal medicine. But it is used as a remedy for dropsy and jaundice. Take the leaves and stems of this herb. Prepare tea and use it to cure constipation.

Also, Madder has traditionally been used as a topical solution for sciatica.

A tincture is made from the fresh root used for late menstruation, spleen disorders, and many other ailments, in homeopathy.

Traditional Benefits of Manjistha

In Tibet, the stems of the Indian Madder are used as a medicine.

You can apply the paste of the Madder to cure different skin diseases such as pimples, itching, leucoderma, and black spots, etc.

It is an excellent natural remedy for women affected by menstruation problems.

Indian Madder can fight against cancer, support the immune system, and help decrease inflammation. It may also help combat stress naturally.

Its leaves act as a poison antidote. In Uganda and Tanzania, it is used to treat mouth sores as well as intestinal problems like diarrhea.

The root is used to cure impotence and sexual dysfunction in South Africa.

The wound is dressed by rubbing the leaves between the palms, and then it is applied over the wound or cut to stop bleeding. Moreover, it is also used as a disinfectant in Tanzania and Kenya.

To cure stomach problems, use the root decoction as the emetic.

In Rwanda, root decoction is used to treat weight loss during pregnancy, urethral leakage, dizziness, tingling, and kidney problems.

To stop malaria, itching and bleeding, it is used in Ethiopia; the leaves are used to treat amebic diarrhea, cancer, and cough.

Benefits of Skin Care: ( Indian Madder)

Here we’ve listed some skin benefits of Madder

Treats Hyperpigmentation: 

Madder is an excellent blood toxin and helps cure skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation.
Cures Acne: Naturally a toxic herb, Madder helps to eliminate acne, pimples, small particles, and boils.
Reduces Inflammation: As it has anti-inflammatory properties, it can be very effective in reducing inflammation.

Anti-Aging Effects:

Madder includes a number of antioxidants that decrease wrinkles and provide the new skin as well as overall youthful appearance.

Heals damaged skin:

By using the healing properties, this madder can be used on wounds and cuts.
Cleanses the skin: Manjistha is best for cleansing and rejuvenating the skin, providing it a fresh glow.

Constituents of Manjistha ( Indian Madder) :

The Indian Madder includes anthraquinones and glycosides. The key components of this herb are munjistin, purpurin, triterpenoids, triterpenoids, quinones, iridoid glycosides, beta-sitosterol, peudopurpurin, and glucoside. These compounds impart antibacterial, tonic, expectorant, emmenagogue, vulnerary, astringent, and diuretic properties to the herb.

Manjista in Ayurveda:

Manjista is commonly practiced in Ayurvedic practices and is famous for its purifying and non-toxic properties. It is classified in Ayurveda as Jvarahara (an herbal remedy for fever), a Vishaghna (anti-toxic herb), and a Varnya (good for skin) herb. It has a Pittahara ingredient and is therefore useful for tissue-related ailments.

Manjista is truly a superhero, it has the ability to heal and rejuvenate the body simultaneously. Since it has many wonderful and nourishing effects, it is no surprise that it is so famous as a medicinal herb.

Home Remedies

Here we’ve mentioned some home remedies by using Indian Madder Root.

1 For Pimples and Dark Spots

Manjistha fine paste

Take Manjistha root powder and add some water. Make it like a paste then apply on your face directly. It doesn’t create any side effects to your skin; it is one of the best natural enhancers. (Use only the fresh roots)

2 For Chronic Ulcer

Manjistha Decoction

Take 1 tsp of coarse powder of the Manjistha and add 2 cups of clean water. Boil in the open air until the total content drops to 1 cup. Filter and use them. It can cure chronic wounds, nonhealing ulcers, etc.

3 For Blisters and Boils

Manjistha Cold Infusion

Soak 20 to 30 grams of coarse powder of the Manjistha into the 200 to 300 ml of water. Ideal it for overnight. Take it in the morning. For the summer season, menopausal period, boils and blisters on your body, it efficiently works.

4 Skin Diseases

Manjistha and Sariva Decoction

Both herbs work well and purify the blood. This combo can cure all types of skin allergies effectively.

5 Burns

Manjistha Herbal Ghee and Oil

Take the equal amount of red sandalwood and manjistha teak wood. Add the oil or ghee into them; it can be processed as per the classical cooking method. Apply them over the burns and scalds. Moreover, it can reduce the risk of boils and cure burns.

Other Facts

The red dye is derived from the stems and roots of the Indian Madder.

It can be used for dyeing wool, silk, linen, and cotton fabrics and for making baskets.

It is traditionally grown on fences inhibiting the northwestern Himalayas, which helps keep livestock and other animals away.

The juice of the crushed fruit is used in the bottle.

In Tanzania, vegetable salt is used to soften burnt vegetables and the ashes of burnt stems and leaves are used when cooking.

The leaves are burned and used to treat inflammation of the mammary glands in gray cattle and to treat itchy skin in humans.

The leaf decoction of the Indian Madder is given to newborn calves with hemorrhagic diarrhea and can cure external parasites like fleas, ticks, and insects in animals in Burundi.

Rubia cordifolia is used as an ornamental climber, but it can also act as a nuisance weed in cultivated fields.

Side Effects & Safety Precaution

If you consume madder by mouth it is likely unsafe because the chemicals may lead to cancer. Madder can also cause urine, saliva, sweat, tears, and breast milk to change into red.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you conceive, then don’t consume madder by mouth. It might start your menstrual period, and that could cause a miscarriage. Madder might also lead to birth defects.
If you are breast-feeding, then madder is not safe for you. It might harm the nursing baby, and it might turn breast milk red.

The chemicals in it can cause cancer.

It can change the color of urine, saliva, sweat, tears, and breast milk.
Its supplements may be linked with blood thinners such as warfarin and coumadin.

The plant also contains compounds known to cause cancer if taken orally. It can also cause restlessness and constipation.

If you are under any medical consumption, you should consult your doctor before taking the Indian Madder.

Why is This Good for You?

Indian Madder is embedded with a compound named Alizarin, which has antibacterial properties. It can fight against dry skin, psoriasis, itching, and inflammation. Moreover, it removes scars from your face and expels toxins from the body. It is the best medicine to treat arthritis and digestion related problems. Madder boasts a powerful immune system. Its lymphatic system is responsible for getting rid of all the wastes and toxins in the body. The regular consumption of Manjistha can dismiss the above problem. Take 2 tsp of Manjistha decoction. Add it in your ears and consume it once a day. You can also consume 1-2 capsules every day.